Retail industry

Why homes are no longer castles

Article Abstract:

Many people made a lot of money through house purchasing in the 1980s, but the changed economic climate is now leading them to see houses as places to live rather than as investments. Building societies and estate agents frequently predict that the housing market is going to take off again soon, but this has failed to happen and potential purchasers and sellers remain wary. However, house prices are currently very low in relation to real income, so purchasing could be attractive to anyone prepared not to look upon a house as an investment.

The Barings prove their worth

Article Abstract:

The Baring dynasty had a crisis in 1890 and was publicly owned for a time. It returned to family control and is owned by the charitable trust the Baring Foudation. Peter Baring, a career banker with 30 years experience, is the 1989-1992 chairman of this City institution. There are five branches of the family to provide able bankers, but family board members are in the minority. Barings conducts merchant banking advisory and underwriting activities, fund managment and has a large securities operation in the Far East.

Jekyll and Hyde alive and well in Lombard Street

Article Abstract:

Bad debts for the main UK clearing banks have risen by 10% for FY 1991/92. The total sum is expected to be 5 billion pounds sterling. Midlands Bank has the highest bad debt provsions. Most of the bad debt is domestic due to the high borrowing level during the 80s and the recession which has hit businesses. Banks have made large trading profits due to higher lending rates and fees and cost reductions. The banks aim to improve profit margins and reduce bad debt levels over the next year.